I’m in San Diego for college, and I’m incredibly fortunate to have found Tama Jiu-Jitsu. The community is amazing and so welcoming. As well as the great people, the level of jiu-jitsu being taught here is top tier. Grateful for Tama🙏🙏
Such a warm and welcoming environment the camaraderie is evident as soon as you walk through the door. Professor Tama has created a place that is fun to learn at and he delivers precise information that is easily digestible for all levels. Johnny also encourages students to train as often as possible to increase skills and techniques. I would highly recommend training here and I will definitely return.
When I look for a place to train, the coaching and the community makes a huge difference for me. Johnny is an outstanding coach with a wealth of wisdom he shares on the mat and consistently encourages your continued learning. Everyone is friendly and welcoming, which makes training really fun and conducive - I love that about this place. So grateful for Tama Jiujitsu!
We’ve had such an amazing experience at Tama Jiu-Jitsu with our 3 1/2 year old son Niko. Coach Fausto is incredibly patient, supportive, and really knows how to connect with the kids. Our son looks forward to every class and is learning discipline, confidence, and focus—all while having fun.
The environment at Tama is welcoming and family-friendly, and you can tell the coaches truly care about the kids’ growth both on and off the mat. We’re so grateful we found this place!
I take my young one here. I love the fact that i can take him to the little kids classes that actually teaches something and not just playing games. Also, i take him to attend the normal kids classes so that he can workout with the big kids. in the normal kids classes, the smaller ones are set to a side learning simpler lessons from one of the instructors. This is great for learning interaction with same and older age groups while also learning technique. Having larger kids in the class can show the little ones on how to act and behave. It also motivates the little ones to get some competitive spirit. My child learns several times more in a week at this school than a month of the gymnastic class i pay at another place.
I can’t say enough good things about Coach Fausto. I have been taking my 3.5 year old there and can’t be more happy. His knowledge of Jiu-Jitsu is outstanding, and he has an incredible gift to work with children and the adults.
What really sets him apart is his patience, passion, and ability to create a welcoming and positive environment. He genuinely care about his students’ progress while having fun with it. The culture he foster on the mats is one of respect, hard work, and having a blast.
If you’re looking to improve your skills, gain confidence, and be part of an amazing Jiu-Jitsu community, I highly recommend training with Coach Fausto. He is a true inspiration and an incredible
Coach
Johnny Tama is one of the most skilled and dedicated instructors I've come across since I started training jiu jitsu. He's a great competitor, but more importantly, his attention to his students and how he runs his classes is exemplary. His academy is clean, organized and extremely welcoming, so if you're looking for a place to start jiu jitsu or just in town and looking for some good training, def come check it out. =)
Professor Johnny is first class. Ive been training for over 10 years now but nothing compares to the knowledge Ive received from this world champion. OSS.
The environment of this gym is emasculate, the owner Johnny is an amazing instructor/teacher and makes it an incredible experience. The skills taught here are 10/10
Tama Jiu-Jitsu is a safe and fun environment. Great skills and techniques and plus he’s a World Champion who’s the nicest and welcoming person you will ever meet.
Top of the line knowledge and instruction! And an amazing atmosphere! Kid friendly and Family friendly! Professor Johnny Tama is a phenomenal instructor and coach
Tama jiu jitsu is great mix of levels, ages and body types, athletes and hobbyist alike. There is a solid wonderful women’s group (which is hard to find!) and a top notch kids program. It’s a welcoming, collaborative environment and the people are so kind.
Johnny is a supportive coach who pushes you to meet your goals, whatever they may be.
Johnny is one of the best people there is to be able to teach jujitsu, he loves what he does and besides he is a world champion, there is no better way to learn than from someone who has come so far in the sport
I’ve known Johnny now for over 8 years, both as a friend, competitor and instructor. Tama Jiu Jitsu is hands down one of the best BJJ gyms in San Diego, thanks in large part to the exceptional teaching of Johnny Tama. A black belt world champion, Johnny brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to every class. His ability to cater to all skill levels is truly commendable. The gym fosters a welcoming and supportive environment, perfect for anyone looking to delve into BJJ. The facility is clean, well-equipped, and maintained excellently. If you're seeking quality BJJ instruction from a world champion, look no further. Highly recommended!
From white Belt to black Belt I’ve trained with Johnny , and by far he is the best professor ever , he always take care of his students and always are there for us . EGND
I've been a student of Professor Johnny for a few years now. He's nothing short of amazing! He is hands down one of the most incredible BJJ professors I’ve had the honor & privilege to train under. Gi or no Gi, he's the man! His depth of knowledge, technical precision, and ability to break down complex techniques into digestible steps are unmatched. He doesn’t just teach you moves—he teaches you how to think strategically, adapt in real time, and truly understand the art. His passion for the sport is contagious, and it’s clear that he genuinely cares about every one of his students, no matter their skill level.
What sets Professor apart is his patience and encouragement. He takes the time to answer every question, revisit techniques, and push you to be the best version of yourself both on and off the mats. His ability to create a positive and welcoming environment fosters not just technical growth, but also a strong sense of community. Let 👏🏼me 👏🏼tell 👏🏼you... our community F&%#$ing rocks! You don’t just leave class feeling like a better grappler—you leave feeling inspired.
If you're not teachable or humble you won't last here.
Johnny’s accomplishments as a competitor speak for themselves (just check that Google/IG), but what makes him truly exceptional is how he translates that elite experience into his teaching. Whether you’re preparing for competition or simply training for personal growth, Johnny will get you to your goals.
If you’re looking for a professor who will push you, believe in you, and help you grow in every aspect of your journey (let that be life or BJJ), look no further than Brofessor Johnny Tama 🫶🏻. I can’t recommend him enough obvi—he’s a phenomenal instructor, mentor, and all-around human being.
And lastly!! We are LE friendly here! Come out and fu%#$g train. Your partners need you to show TF up ready, your community depends on you, and your family needs you home more than anything. #OffMySoapBox
Tama Jiu-Jitsu is an amazing spot for anyone looking to take their training to the next level. Prof. Tama is an incredibly knowledgeable and accomplished instructor who takes the time to break down techniques in a way that’s easy to understand, regardless of your skill level. The gym’s location is super convenient, and the facilities are top-notch — clean, modern, and equipped with everything you need to train. Whether you're new to jiu-jitsu, prepping for competition, or just looking to improve your skills, this gym offers a welcoming environment with a great vibe. Come by and check it out!
More than just a top tier BJJ academy, a second home and dedicated community of competitors and hobbyists alike.
Since joining Tama in July of 2025, I can very happily and confidently say, that my life has changed tremendously for the better. I lost over 10 pounds in just the first three months, have grown in my confidence as a BJJ athlete, cultivated an extended family, and even competed in my first Jiu-Jitsu tournament, and won silver in no gi!
Johnny is a world champion, a passionate instructor, and someone who actually cares deeply about the progress of all his students. He is authentic and funny and intense in all the best ways. Truly such an honor getting to grow and learn under his teachings and dedicated staff. Cannot express enough gratitude for the growth I've experienced since joining his academy, with the goal of earning my black belt within the next 10 years. We are in it for the journey, and excited for this lifelong roller coaster ride.
10/10 highly recommend his school to anyone wanting to learn both gi and no gi and up your self-defense skills. OSS
I drop into Tama Jiu-Jitsu regularly to do some cross training. I absolutely love this gym and the overall environment. Professor Johnny Tama is an excellent teacher who’s very friendly, patient and is eager to teach. The gym is very well kept and the atmosphere is very welcoming. This place genuinely cares about its students and you’ll learn very detailed effective Jiu Jitsu here. Professor Johnny also runs a fabulous kids program here. Please drop in and see for yourself.
Tama Jiu Jitsu is a great school for anyone that wants to try Jiu Jitsu for the first or improve as competitor. Great quality coaching. The facility is clean and well kept at all times. Highly recommend to anyone to come and see it for yourself.
Beautiful gym, Johnny is super high level, an excellent teacher too. If you’re in the area, I can recommend that he is great to learn from , kids or adult, this guy is your guy.
I’ve trained with Prof. Tama twice now, most recently during a visit in November 2024. There are so many world class BJJ schools in San Diego, and I would definitely train at his academy if I lived there. The team was friendly and welcoming, and the teaching and rolls were great. The gym was bright and clean. No meatheads or ego. Most of all, if you train at Tama Jiu-Jitsu, you get to learn from a legit world champion who’s approachable, experienced at the highest levels, and funny. I’m so happy for Prof. Tama and his team that he has his own academy now, and I expect them to grow quickly and do great things. Make sure to check them out!
Great hospitality from Johnny and his staff. Dropped in while in town on vacation and had a great roll. Nice guys and clean facility. Thanks for the fun competition!!
This is a great gym! I have known Professor Johnny for almost a decade. He always brings detailed and high level jiu jitsu instruction. His kids class is fun and he does a good job of making the kids feel welcome. Come through and enjoy a family friendly setting for Jiu Jitsu.
I've been lucky enough to learn from and train with Johnny for the past two years. Johnny is an exceptional instructor and Tama Jiu-Jitsu is an outstanding studio with a welcoming community for all ages and levels. Johnny simultaneously motivates and encourages the students, allowing each of us to enjoy and and get the most from our BJJ journey.
I recently moved to San Diego and was looking for a place to train. A friend recommended Tama Jiu Jitsu so I checked it out and couldn't be happier. Johnny is a world class practitioner and outstanding coach as well as a very nice guy. The students are friendly and skilled. Whether you are starting out or experienced, you will find a great training environment at Tama Jiu Jitsu.
I was visiting from out of town and called professor Johnny to drop in. He was very transparent about the drop-in fee and told me to show up before the no gi class that evening. I got there and was lucky enough to have a small class that night and got to learn some amazing overhook techniques. We then ended the class with situational sparring and ended within the 1.5 hour timeframe. The school was clean, great energy and top notch technique. Johnny took some time after class to chat and found out that we had some mutual friends and training partners. He invited me to have his school be my home away from home whenever work has me down in the San Diego area. Great guy and great school. I highly recommend it, if you are looking to start your jiu jitsu journey, be sure to hit up Tama Jiu Jitsu!!
I did a drop in during my trip in San Diego. Great school! Johnny is not just a world class practitioner but also a great instructor. Johnny's immense knowledge is really evident with the extra details and nuances he shares on techniques. Will definitely come back again on next visit to San Diego.
Johny Tama is the first Ecuadorian ever to win a jiujitsu world championship in the adult division.
Really good guy, he loves jiujitsu and he accomplished BIG things at a young age. His jiujitsu lineage is one of the best you can possible have. If you want to be a hobbyist or a competitor this is really great place.
Oss Johnny! Congratulation for your academy!
Come to School of Jiujitsu to learn excellent technique from Professor Johnny Tama. Technique and his approach to grappling holds test with some current champions in the Jiujitsu world. All ages will do very well learning from him and his experiences. You will always leave a class with some valuable information.
I've had the pleasure of learning from Professor Johnny well before he opened up his own school, and after recently visiting Tama Jiu-Jitsu, I can say the amazing community he's already been able to develop there isn't surprising at all. He's a top notch competitor and instructor and you can see that from the little kids he trains to the adults (of all levels.) Whether you want to try out Jiu-Jitsu for the first time, or schedule a private lesson with Professor Johnny, I highly recommend it! (The ocean breeze coming in thru the door is an added bonus!)
I been training with Jhonny for over a decade and he is an amazing coach and amazing human being very passionate about his students and very dedicated to the art of jiu jitsu, thank you
Professor Johnny is a world class athlete and an amazing coach. He treats his students with respect and pushes them to be the best version of themselves. His new gym is clean and the culture he has created is welcoming to newcomers and old timers alike.
Great coach and nice new academy. I’ve been learning from Professor Johnny for a few years and he’s added different concepts and valuable techniques to my jiujitsu. If you’re looking for a coach to push you and help get you to your goals, he’s your guy.
Fantastic facility with outstanding coaches! My kids have had an incredible experience here. The staff's expertise, patience, and passion shine through. We're so grateful to be part of this community!
Johnny is a wonderful coach, friend, mentor, and athlete, who continually strives to improve his life and those who join him in it. I am so proud of the school he has created, and am enthused to advocate for his accolades, achievements, and world class instruction.
Owned and run by black belt World Champion Professor Johnny Tama, Tama Jiu Jitsu academy is a welcoming community that will support you in your Jiu Jitsu journey. The instruction is highly technical and World class. As a middle aged grappler and student of Johnny Tama I have found training Tama Jiu Jitsu academy to be a good mixture of challenge and flow. Whether you are a competitor or hobbyist come learn from the best.
The first Ecuadorian to conquer a Worlds Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gold medal at No Gi and so many more gold medals in different tournaments all around the world.
You don't want to miss the oportunity to learn from one of the best pound per pound jiujitsu athletes Johnny Tama owner and headcoach! Lets get your gi on and start trainning in a great environment OOSSS
I have trained under Johnny Tama for 3 years. The gym has a nice mix of hobbyists, competitors, ages, body types as well as a strong women’s group. The gym is welcoming and appreciates drop ins as well as those just starting out. The instruction is top notch
Johnny Tama is one of the most knowledgeable people I know in the jiu jitsu world, and always takes care of all of his students. In this gym you are family, and everyone is always very welcoming to newcomers and anyone visiting. Come to Tama jiu jitsu for top level training or just to learn an awesome new skill!
I have been training with Professor Johnny Tama for a little over a year and a half. If you are looking for world class and very technical jiu jitsu this is the place for you. I have noticed my game going from relying on speed and strength to understanding the intricates of the art. Johnny helped me reach my goal of winning tournaments and has taught me valuable life lessons all through his teaching methods.
Awesome jujitsu gym! Positive atmosphere. People are helpful and nice. Professor
Johnny was so kind. He got me a chair, while I watched my boys. I didn’t even ask. Made me feel special. There is a fantastic cross breeze that keeps the gym cool! Right by fiesta Island! If you’re in the area check it out! Professor Johnny is extremely knowledgeable about jujitsu.
Highly Recommended. Prof. Johnny is very skilled, technical, and meticulous instructor, who obviously has a strong passion Jiu Jitsu and his students. He provides a welcoming environment. The gym itself is well kept, including the restroom :) My children have trained under Prof Johnny from previous gyms and now continues to have the privilege of cross-training with him at Tama Jiu Jitsu.
I’ve been training with Professor Johnny for almost 10 years! He’s an encyclopedia of jiu jitsu knowledge and is always eager to learn and share it with his students. Throughout my own jiu jitsu journey he has been a great supporter, friend and coach. I can always count on him to be at my sideline!
I highly recommend every adult, woman and child to check out his classes. And if you’re new to jiu jitsu you’re in good hands to start your own journey!
I’ve trained under Johnny for over a year now and followed him here when he opened this facility. The community here is diverse and supportive, creating a positive atmosphere where everyone can thrive. It's an ideal space to have fun, develop or enhance skills, and build confidence.
Johnny Tama is a world class instructor along with being a nogi world champion. Just that alone could speak for itself. His Jiu Jitsu is top notch and he’s very passionate about his students and their learning journey. I have known Johnny since 2018 and he has shown me nothing but a good professor, with a fire in his heart to teach and keep the art of Jiu Jitsu alive. If you’re looking for a great, caring Jiu Jitsu instructor then you found it.
Tama Jiu-Jitsu offers an exceptional training environment for all ages and levels. As a world champion, Johnny has a deep understanding of the art and a contagious enthusiasm for skill development. The gym culture is friendly and supportive, with Johnny offering individualized attention to each student. Whether you're new to jiu-jitsu or looking to refine your techniques, Johnny Tama’s gym provides effective instruction in a welcoming environment.
Professor Tama is a top notch Jiu-Jitsu instructor and Tama Jiu-Jitsu is an amazing environment to learn. You’ll improve your knowledge whether you’re a white or black belt and regardless of your age. Can’t recommend Tama Jiu-Jitsu enough!
Johnny is exceptional. His knowledge and the community he has created is truly special. I traveled down from Seattle to train and learn. Can not recommend high enough. Vamo
I've been training with Johnny Tama since 2020 (pre gym) and it has been an exceptional experience. His teaching style is impeccable—he excels in engaging students of all ages, from kids and teens to even the most stubborn blue belts (me) and upper belts. His ability to connect and communicate effectively is a testament to his skill and passion for jiu-jitsu.
Johnny’s new gym in San Diego is a beautiful facility that perfectly reflects his dedication to the sport. As a 2019 Black Belt No-Gi World Champion, Johnny brings a competitive edge and high level of expertise to his instruction. His active participation in BJJ competitions adds credibility and depth to his teaching.
Beyond his technical skills, Johnny is an honest and caring instructor who genuinely invests in his students' progress. He is always supportive of those who are committed to applying his teachings and those who carry the thirst to learn. If you’re looking for a top-tier instructor who combines skill, experience, and a sincere dedication to his students, Johnny Tama’s gym is the place to train.
Great group to train with and very welcoming environment. When I come back to visit my hometown this is where I’ll be going.
Go train with world class instructors.
World champion, Professor Tama provides some of the best instruction you can find. There is a great group here that welcomed you like family. The kids program is top notch and there are a ton of classes through out the week for adults and kids. Check this place out, you'll be impressed.
Johnny is and amazing professor. He is an accomplished world champion and an incredible teacher. From the kids classes, to gi, to no-gi there is something for everyone. It's a great gym, a great community, and is welcoming to all levels!
My first time learning jiu jitsu was here ! Also my first time trying on a Gi super nice spot and coach is amazing with explaining everything step by step while also giving me some attention not like where other places where the coaches don’t check up on you they actually care here .
If you're looking for an amazing Jiu-jitsu experience, this is the place to be. Johnny Tama is a world-class instructor and competitor, there's no better professor to learn from.
Highly recommended!
I’ve taken a seminar from Johnny when I was living in Vegas and had the privilege to drop in a class with him at his new gym here in San Diego and can honestly say if you are interested in training you need to go check out Tama Jiu Jitsu.
High level technique but also such a chill and friendly environment. The people there are great and super inviting I highly recommend checking out the gym!
Tama Jiu-Jitsu is incredible! Johnny is not only a world champion but also a top-tier professor. He has created a supportive atmosphere and community within his spotless gym. He truly cares about his students. I am constantly learning and being challenged in the best way possible in every class. I highly recommend training here!
Johnny is a top notch professor who ensures you are able to understand and then execute each move he teaches. The gym is spotless and such a beautiful space. Not only is he great with the adults but he also is amazing with his kids class students who he adores sharing his passion for jiu jitsu with. The community he has created is unmatched. Check it out!
Johnny Tama is a world champion in jiu jitsu, both as a professor and a friend. The atmosphere at his academy is incredible, creating an amazing environment for learning and growth.
I’ve trained multiple times with Johnny through the years and to now be able to attend to his academy is amazing. I truely enjoy always able to learn new techniques that have helped me improve a ton. Really recommend swinging by to the mats
Haven't visit the physical location yet but I can assure that Johnny and the Tama JJ staff is a Top Bjj spot with lots of experience teaching and helping achieving practitioners goals and dreams. Can't wait to visit!
Johnny is such a talented and passionate instructor. He genuinely takes the time to ensure that each and every one of his students, no matter age or gender, feels comfortable and is progressing in their training. Nobody is more dedicated to the art like Johnny Tama!
